AU2015238934B2

AU2015238934B2 - Goggles

Info

Publication number: AU2015238934B2
Application number: AU2015238934A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Chris Johnson; Joseph SANTRY; Tom Waller
Original assignee: Speedo International Ltd
Current assignee: Speedo International Ltd
Priority date: 2011-06-03
Filing date: 2015-10-12
Publication date: 2017-08-17
Anticipated expiration: 2032-06-01
Also published as: CN103717184A; WO2012164297A1; AU2015238934A1; EP2713969A1; RU2013157918A; US20140115760A1; JP2014527413A; TWI571287B; KR101920522B1; EP2713969B1; TW201302271A; AR086670A1; KR20140047630A; RU2637358C2; CN103717184B; BR112013031145A2; US10117779B2; AU2012264443A1

Abstract

Abstract The present invention relates to goggles, preferably extra-orbital goggles, having an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an 5 upper and a lower peripheral wall. The upper and lower peripheral walls extend to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively which, in use, are in contact with the wearer's face. The outer surface defined by the upper peripheral walls is convex. This contributes to a goggle outer surface which is a smooth curve. Fig 4 to accompany 6993865 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 BENB

Description

GOGGLES 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to goggles. 5

BACKGROUND

It is often desirable for a wearer to wear goggles to protect the wearer’s eyes and/or improve vision. For example, a swimmer may wear goggles to prevent water from contacting the wearer’s eyes as this can cause discomfort and 10 impairment to the wearer’s vision.

Swimming goggles typically have a pair of front lens portions surrounded by a respective wall which extends back to and forms a seal with the wearer’s face. The seals minimise contact between the wearer’s eyes and the water. 15

Competitive swimmers are keen to minimise drag/water resistance as they move through the water in order to increase their speed. Known goggles can increase drag/water resistance as they protrude from the wearer’s face and the walls can create a surface against which water can impact thus creating 20 drag/water resistance. The impact of the water against the walls can also dislodge the goggles thus compromising the seal against the wearer’s face and allowing the undesirable ingress of water into the goggles. 1 9312693J (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

5 SUMMARY

According to a first aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of eye pieces each having a lens portion and an upper and a lower peripheral wall extending from the lens portion to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively wherein, in use, said peripheral edges are in 10 contact with the wearer’s face, each eye piece furthe· comprising an inner peripheral wall extending from the lens portion to an inner peripheral edge which, in use, forms a seal against the wearer’s face, and wherein the outer surface of the upper and lower peripheral walls are convex and a cross-section through the outer surface of each eye piece from the upper peripheral 15 edge to the lower peripheral edge through the upper peripheral wall, the lens and the lower peripheral wall is a smooth continuous convex curve. It is understood that the surface which faces away from the wearer and which, in use, is in contact with water. 20 Advantageously, the goggles streamline the wearer’s head in order to reduce drag/resistance as the wearer moves. The goggles minimise drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through water and minimise the possibility of dislodgement of the goggles (even in the absence of a head strap) which thus minimises the ingress of water. 25 2 9312693_1 (GH Matters) P93092.AU.1

Many known goggles have a substantially planar upper peripheral wall and this, necessarily extends back from the lens portion at substantially 90 degrees to the lens portion. This presents a prominent leading edge which creates considerable water resistance. By providing an upper peripheral wall 5 having a convex outer surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through water because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

The outer surface defined by both the upper and lower peripheral walls is 10 convex. This helps further reduce the water resistance as the water will flow smoothly over the lower peripheral walls as the wearer moves through the water.

The smooth flow of water over the goggles helps minimise the chance of 15 goggle displacement as the wearer moves through the water. Goggles having a concave upper peripheral wall do not exhibit this effect as the water flows over the upper peripheral wall and away from the lens portion whereas a convex wall portion causes the water to flow over the lens portion and then around the lower peripheral wall thus providing a force pushing the goggles in 20 towards the face. This effect is sufficient to hold the goggles onto the wearer’s face without a head strap.

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the or each respective peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the outer surface defined by the 25 respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral wall(s) join the lens portions (which 3 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 may have a curved or planar outer surface) through a continuous/smooth curve and there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral wall(s) and the respective lens portions. Many known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost perpendicularly to the lens portions so that 5 the joins between the peripheral walls and lens portions are not smooth/continuously curved; there is an abrupt, angular join. This abrupt angular join creates a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 10 The outer surface may be a smooth curve. For example, if the lens portions have a curved outer surface, the outer surface of the goggles is a continuous curve. As discussed above, this smooth curve facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that forces the goggles onto the wearer’s face and helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. 15

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral edge contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally. In some embodiments, the lower peripheral edge contacts the wearer’s cheekbone. In some embodiments, the goggles are extra-orbital goggles. By providing extra-orbital goggles (as opposed to 20 intra-orbital goggles which contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s eye socket which minimises recesses thus minimising areas of possible water turbulence. Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of goggle dislodgement. 25 4 9312693J (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is at least 55mm, and in some embodiments, around 60mm. This is a significantly larger distance than for known goggles. By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges, it is possible to provide a 5 shallowly curved convex upper peripheral wall which helps to further reduce the prominence of the leading edge and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of goggle dislodgement. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral wall forms a smooth 10 transition with the wearer’s brow i.e. in use, the wearer’s brow and upper peripheral wall form a smooth/continuous curve. As discussed above, many known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost perpendicularly to the lens portions. Since the lens portions are generally perpendicular to the wearer’s face, this means that the peripheral wallsgenerally abut the wearer’s 15 face at right angles (usually just below the wearer’s brow i.e. intra-orbitally). This presents a very prominent leading edge which increases turbulence and increases the likelihood that the goggles are dislodged from the wearer’s face. Accordingly by providing an upper peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s 20 brow, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper peripheral wall as the goggles do not present such a prominent leading edge.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, in use, the lower peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek bone i.e.in use, the wearer’s cheek 25 and lower peripheral wall form a smooth/continuous curve. As discussed 5 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 above, many known goggles have peripheral walls which abut the wearer’s face intra-orbitally at right angles. This presents a very recessed trailing edge which increases turbulence and drag. Accordingly by providing a lower peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s cheek exta-orbitally and forms a 5 smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek, it is pcssible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower peripheral wall. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some forms, in use, the wearer’s nostrils remain uncovered. 10 In some forms, the lens portions are joined to one another through a rigid nose bridge.

According to a second aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper peripheral wall 15 extending to an upper peripheral edge which, in use contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and a lower peripheral wall extending to a lower peripheral edge which, in use, contacts the wearer’s cheek bone.

By providing extra-orbital goggles (as opposed to intra-orbital goggles which 20 contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s e\e socket which minimises recesses thus minimising areas of possible water turbulence. Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of dislodgement by creating a smooth flow of water over the goggles. 25 6 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

Typically, the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is at least 55mm and preferably around 60mm. This is a significantly larger distance than for known goggles. By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges, it is possible to fill in the wearer’s eye socket 5 and streamline the wearer’s head. This helps to firther reduce the prominence of the leading edge and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of dislodgement. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, said outer surface is a smooth curve i.e. the peripheral 10 walls form a smooth transition with the respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral walls join the lens portions (which may have a curved or planar outer surface) through a continuous/smooth curve and/or there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral walls and the respective lens portions. Many known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost 15 perpendicularly to the lens portions so that the joins between the peripheral walls and lens portions are not smooth/continuously curved; there is an abrupt, angular join. This abrupt angular join creates a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. 20 In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the upper peripheral walls is convex and in some embodiments, the outer surface defined by both the upper and lower peripheral walls is convex. The convex curving of the peripheral wall(s) facilitates smooth water flow as discussed above in relation to the first aspect. 25 7 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s brow and/or the lower peirpheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek. As discussed above in relation to the first aspect, by providing an upper peripheral edge which contacts the 5 wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s brow, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper peripheral wall as the goggles do not present such a prominent leading edge. Furthermore, by providing a lower peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s cheek extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s 10 cheek, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower peripheral wall. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

According to a third aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper and a lower 15 peripheral wall extending to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively wherein, in use, said peripheral edges are in contact with the wearer’s face, and wherein, in use, the goggles fill the wearer’s e^e sockets to streamline the wearer’s head. 20 Many known goggles do not fill in the wearer’s eye sockets but, instead sit within the eye socket. This means that recesses (defined by the eye sockets) remain and these create turbulent flow which acts as a resistance to movement through the water and can dislodge the goggles or, at least, compromise the water-tightness of the goggles. By providing goggles which 25 fill in the wearer’s eye sockets, preferably by fittng the wearer’s face extra- 8 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 orbitally, it is possible to eliminate these recesses and thus reduce water turbulence. This allows for a smooth flow of water over the goggles. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral edge contacts the 5 wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and/or the lower peripheral edge contacts the wearer’s cheekbone. By providing extra-orbital goggbs (as opposed to intraorbital goggles which contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s eye socket which minimises recesses thus minimising areas of possible water turbulence. 10 Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of dislodgement.

Typically, the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is at least 55mm, and in some embodiments, around 60mm. This is a 15 significantly larger distance than for known goggles. By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges, it is possible to fill in the wearer’s eye socket and streamline the wearer’s head. This helps to further reduce the prominence of the leading edge and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of dislodgement. 20

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the upper peripheral walls is convex and in some embodiments, the outer surface defined by both the upper and lower peripheral walls is convex. The convex curving of the peripheral wall(s) facilitates smooth water flow as discussed above in relation 25 to the first aspect. 9 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the or each respective peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the outer surface defined by the respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral wall(s) join the lens portions (which 5 may have a curved or planar outer surface) through a continuous/smooth curve and there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral wall(s) and the respective lens portions. As discussed above, many known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost perpendicularly to the lens portions so that the joins between the peripheral walls and lens portions are 10 abrupt and angular. This abrupt angular join creates a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, the outer surface is a smooth curve. For example, if the lens portions have a curved outer surface, the outer surface of the goggles 15 is a continuous curve. This smooth curve facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. In some embodiments, the outer surface is a smooth, continuous, convex surface. 20 In some embodiments, the upper peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s brow and the lower peripheral wallforms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek. Accordingly, as discussed d^ove in relation to the first aspect, by providing an upper peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s 25 brow, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper 10 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 peripheral wall as the goggles do not present such a prominent leading edge. By providing a lower peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s cheek extra-orbitally and forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek (unlike known goggles where the peripheral wall contacts the wearer’s face at substantially 5 90 degrees), it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 peripheral wall.

According to a fourth aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper and a lower 10 peripheral wall extending to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively wherein, in use, said peripheral edges are in contact with the wearer’s face, wherein the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is greater than 55mm. In some embodiments, the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is around 60mm. 15

This (55mm) is a significantly larger distance than for known goggles. By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges, it is possible to fill in the wearer’s eye socket and streamline the wearers head. This helps to reduce the prominence of the leading edge presented by the upper peripheral 20 wall and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of dislodgement by providing a smooth flow of water over the goggles.

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral edge contacts the 25 wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and/or the lower peripheral edge contacts the 11 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 wearer’s cheekbone. By providing extra-orbital ***s (as opposed to intraorbital goggles which contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s eye socket which minimises recesses thus minimising areas of possible water turbulence. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 5 Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of dislodgement.

In some embodiments, the upper peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s brow and the lower peripheral wal forms a smooth transition 10 with the wearer’s cheek. Accordingly, as discussed d^ove in relation to the first aspect, by providing an upper peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s brow, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper peripheral wall as the goggles do not present such a prominent leading edge. 15 By providing a lower peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s cheek extra-orbitally and forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek (unlike known goggles where the peripheral wall contacts the wearer’s face at substantially 90 degrees), it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower peripheral wall. 20

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the upper peripheral walls is convex and in some embodiments, the outer surface defined by both the upper and lower peripheral walls is convex. The convex curving of the peripheral wall(s) facilitates smooth water flow as discussed above in relation 25 to the first aspect. 12 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, the outer surface is a smooth curve. For example, if the lens portions have a curved outer surface, the outer surface of the goggles 15 is a continuous curve. This smooth curve facilitates smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that forces the goggles onto the wearer’s face and helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. In some embodiments, the outer surface is a smooth, continuous, convex curve. 20 According to a fifth aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper and a lower peripheral wall extending to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively wherein, in use, said peripheral edges are in contact with the wearer’s face, wherein the outer surface is a smooth curve. 25 13 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

The outer surface (i.e. the surface which faces away from the wearer in use) formed by the upper and lower peripheral walls forms a smooth transition with the outer surface formed by the respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral walls join the lens portions (which may have a curved or planar outer surface) 5 through a smooth curve and there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral walls and the respective lens portions. Many known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost perpendicularly to the lens portions so that the joins between the peripheral walls and lens portions are not smooth/continuously curved; there is an abrupt, angular join. This abrupt 10 angular join creates a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. The smoothly curved outer surface provided by the fifth aspect facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that forces the goggles onto the wearer’s face and helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. The smooth curve also helps provide 15 streamlined goggles which minimise drag/water resistance. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, the smooth curve is a continuous curve i.e. all of the lens portions, upper peripheral wall and lower peripheral wall are curved. 20 In some embodiments, the smooth curve is a convex curve. Many known goggles have a substantially planar peripheral wall and this, necessarily extends back from the lens portion at substantially 90 degrees to the lens portion. This presents a prominent leading edge which creates considerable water resistance. By providing a smoothly curved convex goggle outer 25 surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer 14 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 moves through water because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral edge contacts the 5 wearer’s brow extra-orbitally. In some embodiments, the lower peripheral edge contacts the wearer’s cheekbone. By providing extra-orbital goggles (as opposed to intra-orbital goggles which contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s eye socket which minimises recesses thus rrinimising areas of 10 possible water turbulence. Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of dislodgement.

In some embodiments, the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is at least 55mm, and in some embodiments, around 60mm. 15 This is a significantly larger distance than for known goggles. By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges, it is possible to provide a shallowly curved upper and lower peripheral walls which helps to further reduce the prominence of the leading edge and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of 20 dislodgement.

In some embodiments, in use, the upper peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s brow i.e. in use, the wearer’s brow and upper peripheral wall form a smooth/continuous curve. As discussed above, many 25 known goggles have peripheral walls extending almost perpendicularly to the 15 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 lens portions. Since the lens portions are generally perpendicular to the wearer’s face, this means that the peripheral wallsgenerally abut the wearer’s face at right angles (usually just below the wearer’s brow i.e. intra-orbitally). This presents a very prominent leading edge which increases turbulence and 5 increases the likelihood that the goggles are dislodged from the wearer’s face. Accordingly by providing an upper peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally and forms a smooth tensition with the wearer’s brow, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper peripheral wall as the goggles do not present such a prominent leading edge. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 10

Furthermore, In some embodiments, in use, the lower peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek bone i.e.in use, the wearer’s cheek and lower peripheral wall form a smooth/continuous curve. As discussed above, many known goggles have peripheral walls which abut the wearer’s 15 face intra-orbitally at right angles. This presents a very recessed trailing edge which increases turbulence and drag. Accordingly by providing a lower peripheral edge which contacts the wearer’s cheek e<tra-orbitally and forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek, it is possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower peripheral wall. 20

In some embodiments, each lens portion of the goggles according to any one of the aspects previously described further comprises an inner peripheral wall which extends to a respective inner peripheral edge which, in use, forms a seal against the wearer’s face. This water-tight sed prevents ingress of water 25 into the goggles to avoid discomfort and vision impairment for the wearer. In 16 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 this case, the upper and lower peripheral walls need not form a seal with the wearer’s face but may simply abut the wearer’s face 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

The inner peripheral wall may extend substantially perpendicularly back from 5 the lens portion and thus forms a secure seal with the wearer’s face. The strength of the seal is not compromised by water flow because the upper and lower outer peripheral walls protect the inner walls from turbulent water flow. Accordingly, a strong seal can be maintained and water ingress minimised. 10 According to a sixth aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper and a lower peripheral wall, wherein each lens portion further comprises an inner peripheral wall which extends to a respective inner peripheral edge which, in use, forms a seal against the wearer’s face, and wheiein the outer surface 15 (i.e. the surface which faces away from the wearer and which, in use, is in contact with water) defined by the upper peripheral walls is convex.

By providing an upper peripheral wall having a convex outer surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through 20 water because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall. The upper peripheral wall deflects water from the inner peripheral wall (which forms a seal with the wearer’s face) so that the seal is not compromised. The inventors have found that this effect is sufficient to hold the goggles onto the wearer’s face without a head strap. 25 17 9312693J (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by both the upper and lower peripheral walls is convex. This helps further reduce the water resistance as the water will flow smoothly over the lower peripheral walls as the wearer moves through the water. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 5

In some embodiments, the outer surface defined by the or each respective peripheral wall forms a smooth transition with the outer surface defined by the respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral wall(s) join the lens portions (which may have a curved or planar outer surface) through a continuous/smooth 10 curve and there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral wall(s) and the respective lens portions. Any abrupt angular joins can create a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. 15 In some embodiments, the outer surface is a smooth curve. For example, if the lens portions have a curved outer surface, the outer surface of the goggles is a continuous curve. As discussed above, this smooth curve facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. 20

According to a seventh aspect, goggles are disclosed comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of lens portions each having an upper and a lower peripheral wall wherein each lens portion further comprises an inner peripheral wall which extends to a respective inner peripheral edge which, in 18 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 use, forms a seal against the wearer’s face, and wherein the outer surface is a smooth curve. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

The outer surface (i.e. the surface which faces away from the wearer in use) 5 formed by the upper and lower peripheral walls forms a smooth transition with the outer surface formed by the respective lens portions i.e. the peripheral walls join the lens portions (which may have a curved or planar outer surface) through a smooth curve and there are no sudden changes in angle between the peripheral walls and the respective lens portions. Any abrupt angular joins 10 create a position of potential turbulence as the water flows over the goggles during use. The smoothly curved outer surface provided by the seventh aspect of the present invention facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles. The smooth curve also helps provide streamlined goggles which minimise 15 drag/water resistance.

In some embodiments, the smooth curve is a continuous curve i.e. all of the lens portions, upper peripheral wall and lower peripheral wall are curved. 20 In some embodiments, the smooth curve is a convex curve. By providing a smoothly curved convex goggle outer surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through water because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall. The inventors have found that a head strap can be omitted from goggles if the outer surface of the 25 goggles is a smooth convex curve. 19 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, in all aspects, the upper and lower peripheral walls are formed of a rigid plastics material which does not significantly flex. This rigidity helps protect any inner peripheral wall from any water turbulence. 2015238934 26 Jul 2017 5

In some embodiments, in all aspects previously described, the respective upper and lower peripheral walls are joined to form a complete peripheral wall which completely surrounds its respective lens portion. In some embodiments, the entire outer surface of the continuous peripheral wall is 10 convex. This helps further minimise water turbulence and hence minimise water resistance.

In some embodiments, in all aspects previously described, the goggles are such that, in use, the wearer’s nostrils are uncovered (unlike in a diving 15 mask).

In some embodiments, the lens portions in nay of the aspects are joined to one another via a nose bridge. In some embodiments, the lens portions are joined to one another via a rigid nose bridge e.g. a nose bridge formed of a 20 rigid plastics material such as nylon, polypropylene or polycarbonate. Such a rigid nose bridge helps maintain the seal between the goggles and the wearer’s face because the goggles do not flex. 20 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

In some embodiments, the lens portions may be directly joined to one another such that they form a singe, elongated lens such as those provided in diving masks. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 5 The features of any of the aspects described above can be combined with any of the features of one or more of the other aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a front view of swimming goggles forming a first embodiment 10 of the present disclosure;

Figure 2 shows a front perspective view of swimming goggles forming a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of swimming goggles forming a first embodiment of the present disclosure; 15 Figure 4 shows a side view of swimming goggles forming a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 5 shows the swimming goggles of the first embodiment when worn; Figure 6 shows a cross section through the lens portion and upper and lower peripheral walls for a second embodiment of the present disclosure; and 20 Figure 7 shows a front view of swimming goggles forming a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 8 shows a front perspective view of swimming goggles forming a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 9 shows a rear view of swimming goggles forming a third embodiment 25 of the present disclosure; 21 9312693J (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

Figure 10 shows a side view of swimming goggles forming a third embodiment of the present disclosure. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 5 Figures 1 to 4 show swimming goggles 1 according a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

The swimming goggles 1 comprises a pair of lens portions 2 (preferably formed of polycarbonate) joined by a nose bridge 3 (preferably formed of 10 thermoplastic rubber (TPR)).

Each lens portion has an upper peripheral wall 4 extending to an upper peripheral edge 5 (shown in Figure 3) and a lower peripheral wall 6 extending to a lower peripheral edge 7 (shown in Figure 3). The peripheral walls are 15 preferably formed of polycarbonate.

The upper and lower peripheral walls 4, 6 are continuous and completely surround the respective lens portion 2. The upper and lower peripheral walls 4, 6 meet at an inside portion 10 adjacent the wearer’s nose and at an outside 20 portion 11 adjacent the wearer’s respective ear. The outside portion is provided with an extension 12 for connection to a head strap (not shown).

The lens portions 2 and peripheral walls 4, 6 define the outer surface of the goggles i.e. the surface which faces away from the wearer and which is in 25 contact with the water during use. 22 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

As can be clearly seen in Figure 4, the upper peripheral wall 4 is convex. By providing an upper peripheral wall having a convex outer surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through water 5 because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall (which will form the leading edge as the swimmer moves through the water). 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

Figure 4 also shows that the lower peripheral wall 6 is convex. This helps further reduce the water resistance as the water will flow smoothly over the 10 lower peripheral wall as the wearer moves through the water.

The outer surface defined by the peripheral walls 4, 6 forms a smooth transition with the outer surface defined by the respective lens portions 2 i.e. the convex peripheral walls 4, 6 join the lens portions 2 (which are curved in 15 this embodiment) through a continuous/smooth curve. There are no sudden changes in angle between the convex peripheral walls 4, 6 and the respective lens portions 2.

It can be clearly seen in Figure 4 that the outer surface of the goggles 1 is a 20 smooth, continuous convex surface. As discussed above, this smooth curve facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that helps prevent dislodgement of the goggles.

In use, the upper peripheral edge 5 contacts the wearer’s brow extra-orbitally 25 and the lower peripheral edge 7 contacts the wearer’s cheekbone as shown in 23 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

Figure 5. By providing extra-orbital goggles (as opposed to intra-orbital goggles which contact the wearer inside the wearer’s eye socket), it is possible to provide goggles which substantially fill in the wearer’s eye socket which minimises recesses thus minimising areas of possible water turbulence. 5 Accordingly, this helps reduce water resistance and the chance of goggle dislodgement (even in the absence of a head strap). 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

The upper peripheral wall 4 forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s brow i.e. the wearer’s brow and upper peripheral wall 4form a smooth/continuous 10 curve. This makes it possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the upper peripheral wall as the goggles do not present a prominent leading edge.

The lower peripheral wall 6 forms a smooth transition with the wearer’s cheek bone i.e. in use, the wearer’s cheek and lower perpheral wall form a 15 smooth/continuous curve. This makes it possible to maximise the smooth flow of water over the lower peripheral wall.

The maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges 5, 7 around 60mm. This is a significantly larger distance than for known goggles. 20 By providing a greater distance between the peripheral edges 5, 7, it is possible to provide shallowly curved upper and lower peripheral walls 4, 6 which helps to further reduce the prominence of the leading edge and thus helps further reduce turbulence and thus minimises water resistance and the chance of dislodgement. 25 24 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

Each upper peripheral edge 5 has an upwardly extending tab 13 which, in use, is overlaid by a forward edge of a swimming cap 14 as shown in Figure 5. The upwardly extending tabs 13 are formed at the outer side of the upper peripheral edge 5 (i.e. on the area which, in use, is proximal the wearer’s 5 ears) but they could alternatively be provided on the inner side (i.e. the area which, in use, is proximal the wearer’s nose). Theupwardly extending tabs 13 extend such that, in use, they rest against the wearer’s brows i.e. the term “upwards” is used to designate a direction which, in use, extends from the peripheral edge over the wearer’s brows. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 10

These tabs 13 are provided such that, in use, they may be overlaid (preferably completely overlaid) by the forward edge of a swimming cap 14. This helps secure the goggles against the wearer’s face so thd forces generated, for example, upon diving into the water, do not dislodge the goggles. 15

The upper peripheral wall 4 and lower peripheral wall 6 are formed of rigid plastic material (e.g. polycarbonate) and, in use, sit in abutment with the wearer’s face rather than forming a water tight sed. The water tight seal around each eye is formed by an inner peripheral wall 8 which extends 20 substantially perpendicularly from the lens portion and terminates in an inner peripheral edge 9. This is most clearly seen in Figure 6 which is a cross section through a lens portion 2 and associated peripheral walls 4, 6 for second embodiment which differs from the first embodiment in that the outer surface defined by the lens portion 2 is planar. However, it can be seen that 25 the outer surface of the goggles of the second embodiment still forms a 25 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1 smooth convex curve (with zero curvature at the lens portions). There are no abrupt transitions between the lens portion 2 and the peripheral walls 4, 6. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

Figures 7 to 10 show swimming goggles 1 according a third embodiment of 5 the present invention.

The swimming goggles 1 comprises a pair of lens portions 2 (preferably formed of polycarbonate) joined by a nose bridge 3 (preferably formed of a rigid plastics material such as nylon). 10

Each lens portion has an upper peripheral wall 4 and a lower peripheral wall 6. The peripheral walls are preferably formed of polycarbonate.

The upper and lower peripheral walls 4, 6 meet at an inside portion 10 15 adjacent the wearer’s nose. The lens portion is povided with an extension 12 for connection to a head strap (not shown). A water tight seal around each eye is formed by an inner peripheral wall 8 which extends substantially perpendicularly from the lens portion and 20 terminates in an inner peripheral edge 9. This is most clearly seen in Figure 8. In this embodiment, the outer surface defined by the lens portion 2 is a convex curve. In other embodiments (not shown), the outer surface formed by the lens portions may be planar although still forming a smooth convex curve (with zero curvature at the lens portions). There are no abrupt 25 transitions between the lens portion 2 and the peripheral walls 4, 6. 26 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

The lens portions 2 and peripheral walls 4, 6 define the outer surface of the goggles i.e. the surface which faces away from the wearer and which is in contact with the water during use. 2015238934 26 Μ 2017 5

As can be clearly seen in Figure 10, the upper peripheral wall 4 is convex. By providing an upper peripheral wall having a convex outer surface, it is possible to reduce the drag/water resistance as the wearer moves through water because the water is able to flow smoothly over the upper peripheral wall 10 (which will form the leading edge as the swimmer moves through the water). The outer surface deflects water away from the inner peripheral wall such that the water tight seal remains uncompromised. The inventors have found that this deflection is sufficient to enable the goggles to be worn without any head strap. 15

Figure 10 also shows that the lower peripheral wall 6 is convex. This helps further reduce the water resistance as the water will flow smoothly over the lower peripheral wall as the wearer moves through the water. 20 The outer surface defined by the peripheral walls 4, 6 forms a smooth transition with the outer surface defined by the respective lens portions 2 i.e. the convex peripheral walls 4, 6 join the lens portions 2 (which are curved in this embodiment) through a continuous/smooth curve. There are no sudden changes in angle between the convex peripheral walls 4, 6 and the respective 25 lens portions 2. 27 9312693_1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

It can be clearly seen in Figure 10 that the outer surface of the goggles 1 is a smooth, continuous convex surface. As discussed above, this smooth curve facilitates a smooth flow of water over the goggles in a manner that forces the 5 goggles onto the wearer’s face and helps prevent dslodgement of the goggles (even in the absence of a head strap). 2015238934 26 Μ 2017

The skilled person will appreciate that the goggles illustrated in the Figures and described above are examples embodying inventive concepts described 10 herein and that many and various modifications can be made without departing from the invention.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the disclosure, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or 15 necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the disclosure. 28 9312693 1 (GHMatters) P93092.AU.1

Claims

Claims

1. Goggles comprising an outer surface defined by a pair of eye pieces having a lens portion and an upper and a lower peripheral wall extending from the lens portion to an upper and lower peripheral edge respectively wherein, in use, said peripheral edges are in contact with the wearer’s face, each eye piece further comprising an inner peripheral wall extending from the lens portion to an inner peripheral edge which, in use, forms a seal against the wearer’s face, and wherein the outer surfaces of the upper and lower peripheral walls are convex and a cross-section through the outer surface of each eye piece from the upper peripheral edge to the lower peripheral edge through the upper peripheral wall, the lens and the lower peripheral wall is a smooth continuous convex curve.
2. Goggles according to claim 1 wherein said goggles are extra-orbital goggles.
3. Goggles according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the maximum distance between the upper and lower peripheral edges is greater than 55mm.
4. Goggles according to any one of the preceding claims wherein, in use, the wearer’s nostrils remain uncovered.
5. Goggles according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lens portions are joined to one another through a rigid nose bridge.